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Purpose of Framework

To provide a framework for nursing practice and knowledge to guide care across the continuum for patients with cancer and their families

Objectives of Framework

Highlight nurses' contribution to high quality cancer care

Describe oncology nursing knowledge across the continuum of care for cancer patients (Standards and Competencies)

Discuss variability of nursing roles across the spectrum of cancer care

Overview of Framework

Underpinnings of Framework:

Highlights oncology knowledge expected of nurses irrespective of where they work

To ensure best care of cancer patients, collaboration of all nurses across continuum is essential

Framework Definitions

Adapted from Cancer Australia EdCaN Framework, A National Professional Development Framework 2009.*

All Nurses

Demonstrate the ability to integrate cancer knowledge and nursing competencies when caring for people with cancer.

Spans across the cancer care continuum in non-oncology settings (ie., community, general practice, long term care, general medicine or nurses entering practice)

Patients being cared for with multiple comorbidities, of which cancer is just one. The nurse may not be providing care for cancer specific issues, but requires foundational understanding of cancer care concepts and competencies to provide the best care to patients

Many Nurses

Demonstrate the ability to apply core knowledge and competencies in cancer care at a more comprehensive level in specific care contexts.

Participate more frequently or for intensive periods in the care of people affected by cancer

May be specialized in another area and are addressing patient’s specific healthcare needs often related to cancer (ie. Enterostomal therapy, Interventional radiology) or their work context or setting has larger volumes of cancer patients (ie. Surgical oncology inpatient units, palliative care)

Nurses demonstrate capabilities at an enhanced level and require increased knowledge of specialized cancer care to apply to their role or context

Some Nurses

Demonstrate the ability to apply knowledge and competencies according to standards for specialized cancer nurses.

Nurses whose primary focus is with cancer care either at a specific phase of the cancer journey (ie. radiation, Diagnostic Assessment Programs, chemo) or across the cancer continuum (ie. disease site, navigator)